9:04 AM,
Feb. 20, 2014

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A team on the periphery of the Eastern Conference playoff race - and with a postseason mandate from ownership - would seem like a probable partner in trade talks.

But when I call around the NBA, I don't hear the Detroit Pistons mentioned prominently as today's 3 p.m. trade deadline nears.

One high-ranking league executive, who requested anonymity because he isn't authorized to speak for the Pistons, said the Pistons have gone quiet since coach Maurice Cheeks was fired this month. Of course, that person can speak only for his team. ...